Faith & Finance - Are You Loving Your Kids Into Debt? with Dr. Art Rainer

We all want the best for our kids, but knowing what’s truly best isn’t always easy.

You’ve probably heard it—or said it yourself: “I just want my kids to have what I didn’t.” It sounds noble, but it can sometimes lead to financial trouble. Today, we’ll talk with Dr. Art Rainer about how that mindset can push parents into debt.

Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.

6 Things That Can Lead Loving Parents Into Debt

Raising kids is one of the most joyful and rewarding callings in life, but it can also be financially challenging. As parents, we want to give our children the best: opportunities, experiences, and resources that help them flourish. But sometimes, even with the best intentions, we can fall into financial traps that lead to debt.

Here are six common ways loving parents may unintentionally sabotage their finances—and how to avoid them.

1. Trying to Keep Up with the Joneses

It’s a familiar struggle: your neighbor buys designer clothes for their kids or sends them to an elite private school, and suddenly you feel the need to do the same. But appearances can be deceiving—many people fund their lifestyle with debt. Chasing someone else’s standard is a never-ending race, and the finish line keeps moving. Be cautious of modeling your spending after others who may not be living within their means.

2. Falling into the Social Media Comparison Trap

Social media only shows the highlight reel. Perfect family vacations, overachieving kids, and pristine homes can tempt you to measure your life against a filtered illusion. These comparisons can spark discontentment and drive unnecessary purchases just to keep up appearances or ease the guilt of not "measuring up." Be mindful of how much your scrolling influences your spending.

3. Believing Your Kids Need to Have It All

From travel teams to private lessons and elite camps, extracurricular activities have become a costly arms race. While these opportunities can be beneficial, they shouldn't come at the expense of your financial health. Don’t beli